HR senior vice president recruitment

A Senior Vice President (SVP) of HR is a key executive responsible for leading large-scale HR functions, often across multiple regions or globally. Typically reporting into the CHRO or CEO, the HR SVP acts as a strategic business partner and drives enterprise-level people strategies.

This role often includes oversight of large HR teams, with a mandate to innovate, transform and future-proof people operations to support long-term business goals.

Role overview

HR SVPs often hold a broad and complex portfolio. Key responsibilities can include:

  • Leading enterprise-wide HR strategy and execution

  • Managing multiple HR leaders and functions (e.g. L&D, ER, talent, rewards)

  • Championing people transformation and cultural alignment across the business

  • Driving M&A integration, restructuring, or rapid scale-ups

  • Working closely with the executive team to influence business strategy

  • Representing HR at the board level and aligning with global leadership teams

  • Driving operational efficiency while enabling innovation and performance

Typical role requirements

To succeed as an HR SVP, candidates must demonstrate:

  • Senior-level HR experience, ideally across global or matrixed organisations

  • A proven record of leading HR through major business change

  • Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence C-suite stakeholders

  • Depth of knowledge in areas such as DEI, total reward, organisational design, and global mobility

  • High-level strategic and operational capability

  • Excellent stakeholder and communication skills across international contexts

An advanced degree in HR, Business, or Organisational Psychology is desirable, along with top-tier professional qualifications such as CIPD Level 7 or SHRM-SCP.

Recruit your next HR senior vice president with Elliott Scott

Elliott Scott has a long-standing reputation for delivering senior HR leaders who can guide complex organisations through change and growth. Our global networks and tailored executive search approach ensure we bring you candidates with the scale, expertise and strategic vision to lead.

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FAQs

An HR SVP typically has a broader remit and greater strategic responsibility than a VP. While VPs may lead within a region or business unit, SVPs usually operate across multiple geographies or divisions and work directly with the executive team to shape enterprise-wide people strategies.

HR SVPs are typically found in large, complex, or global organisations across industries such as technology, financial services, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and consumer goods. Their expertise is often vital during periods of transformation, scaling, or global expansion.

An HR SVP must demonstrate strong executive presence, strategic thinking, cross-cultural awareness, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. They also need to be experienced in leading large HR teams, managing change, and aligning people initiatives with broader business goals.